Benalmádena: Things to See and Do

Benalmádena – things to see and do

If you are staying in Málaga or on the Costa del Sol, make sure to set aside some time to visit Benalmádena. This charming seaside resort offers beautiful beaches, pleasant promenades and plenty of activities for the whole family.

Below you will find a selection of ideas and routes covering the best things to see in Benalmádena, places for relaxing walks, attractions for children and useful tips to help you plan your trip.

Best things to see in Benalmádena: top attractions and places to visit

Benalmádena is divided into three main areas: Benalmádena Pueblo, Arroyo de la Miel and Benalmádena Costa.

Benalmádena Pueblo

Benalmádena Pueblo and La Niña statue

This is where the original village was founded before gradually expanding into the town we know today. Benalmádena Pueblo is a charming area filled with whitewashed houses, colourful flowers and narrow Andalusian streets.

In the centre of Plaza de España, you will find one of the town’s symbols — the statue known as “La Niña”. The sculpture depicts a girl offering water in a shell and represents hospitality and friendliness.

Castillo de Colomares (Colomares Castle)

Located not far from Plaza de España, Castillo de Colomares is an extraordinary architectural monument that immediately catches the eye.

Built just over 30 years ago, this unique complex covers around 1,500 m² and is dedicated to the voyages of Christopher Columbus and the discovery of the New World.

Its story is carved in stone, brick and concrete, with touches of glass and wood. Throughout the complex you can recognise references to Columbus’s famous ships — the Santa María, the Niña and the Pinta.

The site features palaces, fountains and towers, as well as the smallest chapel in the world, measuring just 1.96 m², which earned it a place in the Guinness World Records. It is an impressive landmark and well worth a visit.

Stupa of Enlightenment (Estupa de la Iluminación)

This striking Buddhist monument is located on a scenic viewpoint overlooking the coast. The stupa is open to visitors and offers a peaceful space for meditation and reflection.

Regular activities take place here, including meditation sessions, exhibitions and Buddhist festivals, making it one of the most unique landmarks in the area. The structure follows traditional Tibetan design and symbolises harmony, peace and prosperity.

Visitors can enjoy a calm atmosphere inside the complex, while the surrounding terraces provide stunning panoramic views of the Costa del Sol.

Butterfly Park (Mariposario de Benalmádena)

This impressive indoor butterfly park, designed in Thai style, is located next to the Stupa of Enlightenment and is one of the largest butterfly parks in Europe.

The park is a tropical garden covering more than 900 m², featuring exotic plants and waterfalls up to 8 metres high. Around 1,500 butterflies from all over the world fly freely inside.

Visitors usually spend up to 1.5 hours here, learning about the life cycle of butterflies and observing their behaviour. You can also see turtles, iguanas, birds and fish.

Arroyo de la Miel

Arroyo de la Miel translates as “Honey Stream”. The name comes from the abundance of honey-producing plants that once grew in the area.

Today, it is the most lively and populated part of Benalmádena, filled with shops, cafés and restaurants. Every Friday, a large street market takes place here and attracts both locals and tourists.

It is an excellent area for walking and getting a feel for everyday life on the Costa del Sol.

Selwo Marina

Selwo Marina is a marine park and aquarium covering more than 1.5 hectares. As you explore the park, you will discover animals and plants from South and Central America, as well as from the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

Highlights include the only ice penguinarium in the region and a large pool where dolphin shows take place.
A visit usually lasts around three hours and is especially enjoyable for families.

Parque de la Paloma

Parque de la Paloma is a large green space located near Selwo Marina, right in the city centre.
It is perfect for a relaxing walk with family and for observing animals and birds.

The park offers sports areas, children’s playgrounds and shaded benches.
It is a great place to escape the heat and enjoy a break from the busy seaside atmosphere.

Cable Car (Teleférico)

The Benalmádena cable car is one of the most popular attractions in the province of Málaga.
The route starts in Arroyo de la Miel and offers spectacular views along the way.

The ride takes around 15 minutes in small cabins and leads to the top of Mount Calamorro.
From here, visitors can access several viewpoints with breathtaking views of the coastline.

At the summit, there are walking paths and bird enclosures, as well as falconry shows, usually held three times a day (check times at the departure station).

Benalmádena Costa

Benalmádena Costa is the seaside area of the town, known for its excellent beaches, marina and wide selection of hotels.

During the day, visitors relax on the beach and swim in the Mediterranean Sea, while evenings are lively with restaurants, cafés and souvenir shops. It is an ideal area for seaside walks and enjoying Andalusian cuisine.

Travel guides to Costa del Sol cities

Planning a trip around Andalusia? These guides will help you discover the best attractions and plan a convenient travel route along the Costa del Sol.

💡 For easy transportation, consider using a car rental service.